Rookie Blue Review: "Big Nickel"

While "Big Nickel" was an entertaining episode of Rookie Blue, it also highlighted a major problem on the show: Andy and Sam have clear chemistry. They know it. Even a prisoner in the backseat of their car knows it. Luke may be a nice guy and solid detective, but the feelings just aren't there on Andy's side, making this a love triangle that feels more like the show just spinning its wheels until it takes the obvious step of putting Andy and Swarek together.

[Photo: ABC]

Andy has said it's "complicated" between her and Sam - but can anyone tell me why? Dating a co-worker is clearly not frowned upon at work. Peck and Diaz openly argued at the station this week, while everyone knows Traci is with Jerry.

It might be more of an issue for a rookie to date her training officer, but - like Grey's Anatomy did with Meredith and Derek - the show needs to play that up more in order for viewers to actually understand why these two aren't dating. Otherwise, it feels like a contrived effort for tension.

I also had a major problem with Sam apologizing to Andy for his initial reaction after the prisoner was rescued. Hello, she made a monumental mistake and a killer was almost on the loose as a result of it! Pretty sure it's okay - nay, necessary! - to tear into her for that. This isn't an occupation where you can treat rookies with kid gloves.

It was definitely nice to see Sam open up a bit, though. He has a sister... and a sense of humor! I actually laughed out loud at the "ham way" joke.

I also laughed at Diaz and Traci's impressions of Jerry and Sam. That was probably the funniest scene of the season, especially well done because it was tied in to Traci and Jerry's relationship, which may very well be over. I can't blame either side.

It's difficult to go from divorce to dating, especially when your girlfriend is a co-worker and has a child. Traci clearly senses this (heck, Jerry told her) and this couple likely needs a break.

I'd comment on Peck's storyline, but must be honest: I just don't care. Something about that character bores me to death. Let's move on...

... to the final scene: Luke kissed Andy, and she returned the lip lock. But did her face at the end express happiness over the reunion? Or hesitation? I sensed the latter. How about you?